If you don’t like tofu, you probably aren’t preparing it right. Here are some helpful tips for preparing and loving tofu! Learning to cook tofu is easy!
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Why people struggle with preparing tofu
Many people, despite their efforts to make tofu, hate it. Generally, tofu haters should learn to prepare it properly. At the beginning of my plant-based journey, I was also a tofu hater.
I clearly remember my first tofu experience. I ordered tofu at an Asian restaurant instead of meat in my dish, which was bland and tasteless. I remember picking it out of my vegetables as a little kid and making a sour disappointed face.
Then, there’s always the debate between plant-based eaters and the pros. A few years ago, claims that soy causes cancer and hormonal problems in men sparked a debate about whether we should even be eating tofu.
Of course, the opposing side says it helps prevent cancer and is a valuable source of protein. And the “myth” that men need to avoid eating tofu is untrue.
What kind of tofu should I buy?
Since then, of course, I’ve learned a thing or two.
First and foremost, the type of tofu you buy is important. In this case, soft tofu Used for dressings, dips and sauces.
on the other hand, Extra firm tofu Made for entrees and can be baked, air fried, grilled or sweetened. Generally, I always buy the firmest tofu I can find.
Sprouted Tofu Firm tofu, and it does not need to be pressed. This is my favorite because I don’t have to press it. I use a paper towel to dry it and it’s ready.
Do I need a tofu press?
For years I avoided eating tofu. Every time I made tofu, I moved it to the side of the plate because it was either fried or mushy. Most restaurants fry it, which I’m not interested in, and people who bake and grill seem to have the same problem as me; Soft flavorless tofu.
Then, I scooped it out with my EZ Tofu Press. I bought it on Amazon and I made the same mistake in the beginning. I didn’t follow the instructions (a problem of mine, haha); I was in a hurry as usual, and I got the same result… tasteless tofu I didn’t like.
I have many friends who share the same frustration, and although I’ve posted recipes with similar instructions, this post is about pressing and cooking properly, so you can enjoy tofu like I do.
And learning to cook tofu is easy!
How to press tofu
- First, carefully remove the tofu from the package, discarding the liquid from the package.
- Then, place the tofu in the middle of the press and turn both knobs evenly about four turns. I usually put the tofu press in the sink next to it, but for this visual post I put it on a plate to drain.
- Turn the knobs evenly every two minutes until you get your result (last picture).
- Most people stop here…not yet. Keep turning until the knobs can be screwed in, almost touching the end like this:
- Although I have never tried this, I decided this time; I would measure the amount of water I got from the bottom of the plate to the end.
- The amount was ¾ cup of liquid.
- Now, remove the press from the plate, and I give it another press with some paper towels to remove the excess liquid.
Marinated tofu
But first you need to marinate it. Yes, you have removed fluids so you can add fluids again Even though it sounds crazy, it’s true
Example Tofu Marinade
- ½ cup soy sauce (tamari for a gluten-free option)
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha
- Mix all the ingredients and pour half of the marinade into a large deep bowl so that you can make a single row of tofu at the bottom.
- Place a single layer of tofu over the marinade and then pour the remaining marinade over the tofu.
- Seal and place in a refrigerator overnight.
Try these tofu marinades for different recipes!
Grilling Tofu
- Preheat the grill to low
- Place a grill mat on the grill (you can also use a grill pan, or if you’re careful, you can place the tofu directly on the grill.
- Cook for about 8 minutes on each side
- Remove from grill and keep in marinade until ready to use.
- Then, cut into strips or cubes.
Baking tofu
- Follow the same pressing and marinating process.
- Then, preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
- Place sliced or diced tofu on a silicone baking mat or parchment paper
- Cook for 15 minutes
- Remove from oven and flip tofu over; Cook for an additional 15 minutes.
Air Frying Tofu
- Follow the same pressing and marinating process.
- Set the air fryer temperature to 375 degrees
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket a few times through the cooking process.
Skillet Tofu
- Follow the same pressing and marinating process.
- Cut the tofu into large cubes (about 1.5″ x 2″).
- Turn the heat to medium-high.
- Add a small amount of marinade (instead of using oil).
- Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until lightly browned on the bottom.
- Flip the tofu with tongs.
- Add more marinade to prevent the tofu from sticking.
- Cook an additional 5 to 6 minutes until browned.
- Flip again and cook for another 2 minutes on each side.
If you want to try tofu, you’ll love its versatility! Once you learn how to cook tofu, you’ll love it.
Tofu recipe
If you’re looking for a great tofu dish, try these tofu recipes. Learning how to cook tofu is easy!
Oh! My name is Kathy, I am a retired high school English teacher and vegan enthusiast and blogger. My entire blog is completely plant-based vegetarian. I truly believe that what we eat and how we live determines our health and the preservation of our planet! 🙂